News >

January 22, 2008—“Audubon applauds the Navy’s decision today to steer clear of the proposed landing field site next to Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. This is a victory for the hundred thousand birds that winter there and for the farmers that live there. It is a victory for the people of North Carolina and the political leaders who represent them. And it is also a victory for the Navy and its pilots, which deserve the safest training possible, without the threat of catastrophic collisions with large birds.

I visited Pocosin Lakes at the beginning of January and saw yet another record number of birds swirl overhead for hours. As many as 80,000 snow geese and 20,000 tundra swans have once again made their annual migration into the area around Pungo Lake. That this awesome spectacle will be continued without risks to birds or planes and that the communities that live in concert with this natural phenomenon will be undisturbed is a true blessing.

As the Navy considers its new sites, we hope they will continue to listen to the concerns of local citizens, government leaders, and conservation interests. Working together, we can find an appropriate way to support the training needs of our military.”

Audubon is dedicated to protecting birds and other wildlife and the habitat that supports them. Our national network of community-based nature centers and chapters, scientific and educational programs, and advocacy on behalf of areas sustaining important bird populations, engage millions of people of all ages and backgrounds in positive conservation experiences.

# # #